Tigers News: Big Jackson Jobe update, former 1B signs with Giants, Ha-Seong Kim

For months, Detroit Tigers fans had basically accepted that Jackson Jobe was a 2027 problem — that Tommy John surgery after just 10 electric rookie starts meant a full lost season in 2026.

But then Scott Harris casually dropped at the Winter Meetings that Detroit expects Jobe back in the rotation at some point in 2026, with AJ Hinch backing it up. That’s not optimism. That’s a plan.

Then Jobe posted himself throwing on Instagram — “first day testing out the new UCL” — and suddenly the future doesn’t feel so far away. No one’s asking him to be Superman, but the idea that this organization’s most hyped pitching prospect in years could meaningfully contribute again this soon is massive.

In an offseason full of uncertainty, this is the rare Tigers update that actually earns the word encouraging.

Former Tigers minor league 1B Jake Holton signs with Giants

Tigers minor-league first baseman Jake Holton announced via Instagram on Monday that he has signed with the San Francisco Giants, ending his time in Detroit’s organization.

Holton, 27, was selected by Detroit in the 10th round of the 2019 MLB Draft and spent the last six seasons in the Tigers’ farm system, providing right-handed power and organizational depth at first base and corner outfield spots. While he never advanced past Double-A, he was viewed internally as a potential depth option as the Tigers navigated ongoing roster and 40-man crunches.

The move reflects the Tigers’ continued emphasis on preserving roster flexibility, while the Giants add a low-risk bat to their minor-league system with an opportunity to compete for depth or a future call-up.

Ha-Seong Kim signing with Braves limits Tigers' free agency options

After declining a $16 million player option, shortstop Ha-Seong Kim agreed on a one-year, $20 million contract to return to the Atlanta Braves in 2026.

The Tigers were reported to have interest in Kim during last week's Winter Meetings, presumably as a short-term option to stabilize the left side of their infield until top prospect Kevin McGonigle is ready to make his MLB debut.

Detroit was hardly a lock to sign Kim, but this was exactly the type of move the Tigers needed to be in on. Short-term money –– real bat, defensive value, no long-term blockage. Instead, another impact offensive player comes off the board while the Tigers keep preaching internal growth and flexibility.

Every signing like this shrinks the path to an actual difference-maker in Detroit. And at some point, “there are still options out there” starts to sound a lot like wishful thinking instead of a plan.